Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Mountain Biking & Cycling
Tracks through terrain that once took pack mules and camel trains are now some of the
best-recommended mountain-bike areas on the island. The Troödos Mountains and its val-
leys take in both surfaced and unsurfaced roads. Long, sweeping and slowly increasing
gradients lead up and down the mountains, providing riders with some of Cyprus' most
scenic areas. Further west, the Akamas Peninsula offers kilometres of pine-forest trails,
rocky tracks and twisting roads worthy of a yellow jersey. Bikes with a good range of
gears, puncture kits and maps are essential.
Mountain bikes can be hired in Troödos and Platres or you can go to
www.mountainbikecyprus.com
for information on training, skills courses, tours, repairs
and servicing in the Akamas.
Cycling (or road biking) has become very popular in Cyprus, largely with Northern
Europeans, with many international cycling teams training on the island. The relatively
short distances and quieter roads that run parallel to the motorways make ideal, clean and
scenic runs. These old roads connect Nicosia (Lefkosia) with the major southern coastal
towns of Larnaka, Lemesos and Pafos. Cyclists can enjoy the use of hard shoulders and
well-paved roads throughout most of the island, and the weather, though hot on the tarmac,
is conducive to training and fitness.
The Karpas Peninsula, in Northern Cyprus, offers some worthwhile traffic-free and flat
rural roads along its cape. It has the added bonus of isolated beaches along its coastline, al-
ways available for a dip in summer. Got to
www.cypruscycling.com
for information on
cycling clubs, races and events. Drink plenty of water and take it easy in the middle (hot-
test) part of the day. Aim for the spring and autumn months if cycling is your main activity
while visiting the island.
